Announcement: I've moved my blog!

I am very excited to announce that I have packed my virtual bags and moved my blog to http://www.chicagonow.com/gladlyglutenfree 

I am now part of the ChicagoNow online community of bloggers writing about all things Chicago. I look forward to continuing to share experiences, recipes, recommendations, and research pertaining to celiac disease and living gluten and dairy free through this new site.

I've enjoyed my relatively short stay on Google Blogger and will continue to keep my older posts here. All new posts will appear on my ChicagoNow Gladly Gluten Free site. Over time, my older posts will be ported over and appear on my ChicagoNow Gladly Gluten Free site as well. 

Stop by for a visit. I'll have some warm, gluten free chocolate chip cookies waiting....not really, but maybe a recipe for them though!

Spring Garden Birthday Party

Even though Chicago weather isn't following suit, spring is definitely here....at least that is what the birds chirping at 6am are telling me. To celebrate this season that brings new life blooming with possibility, we decided to have a spring garden themed birthday party for my daughter. We had both gluten and gluten-free guests, so I made two versions of some of the menu items to accommodate both.

Menu
Party Chicken
Easy Roasted Potatoes
Vegetable Quiche
Springtime Butterflies and Flowers Birthday Cake
Flower Pot Cupcakes
Bird Nests
Assorted Fresh Fruit, Veggies and Hummus Dip (Tribe brand is gluten free)

We had several games and crafts focused on a spring theme. Most of the children attending were under the age of 6, so we tried to have games and crafts that were not too complicated. My daughter and I tried to show some restraint when shopping for all of the decorations, but it is hard when you are bombarded with cute little butterflies, spring chicks, and pastel flowers at these craft stores!


Games and Crafts

• Decorate and Fill a Flower Pot
• Face Painting
• Flower Toss
• Pin the Petal on the Flower
• Thank You Flowers

Decorate and Fill a Flower Pot
This is a fun and easy way to get kids excited for spring and express their creative sides.
Supplies Needed:

• Large folding table covered in butcher/craft paper
• Small terra cotta pots
• Spray Paint (whatever colors you choose)
• Spring-themed foam stickers, foam letters
• Glitter glue, markers
• Potting Soil 
• Small stones
• Assorted Seeds

Spray paint flower pots in assorted colors and let dry. Arrange all supplies on a large folding table covered in craft paper. When children arrive, they can choose various foam stickers, glitter glue, and markers to decorate their flower pot. When they are finished decorating, let them choose which seeds they'd like to plant in their pot. Place a stone at the bottom of the pot to cover the drain hole. Fill pot with potting soil and have the children sprinkle in seeds.

Face Painting
Kids always love getting their face painted. The key to keeping the party running smoothly is to offer a menu of a few choices (frog, butterfly, flower) and stick to those options! Hobby Lobby and other craft stores sell various brands of face paints. I personally like
Supplies Needed:

• Set of Paint Pots
• Paintbrush with fairly thin tip
• Cup with Water
• Paper Towel
• 2 Chairs (one for face painter, one for party guest)
• Menu of available options (I printed out a page with clip-art images of the choices)
• Hand Mirror (for looking at the finished product)

Flower Toss
This is is a riff on Bozo Buckets, one of my personal favorites as a kid growing up in Chicago.
Supplied Needed:

• Large flower pot
  
• Set of artificial daisies or similar large flower (remove tops from stems)
  
• Small stones
  
• Hot glue gun

Here, I use one "bucket" which is really a large flower pot. Kids toss the tops of artificial daisies into the flower pot, seeing how many they can get into the pot. Each of the daisies are weighted down by a stone that is hot-glued to the back. The game was such a hit that even grandma gave it a try!

Pin the Petal on the Flower
This is another riff of an old favorite - Pin the Tail on the Donkey. Kids are blindfolded and stick their "petal" on the flower stem, trying to get as close to the center as possible. At the end of the game, we had made quite a nice piece of modern art.
Supplies Needed:

• Craft paper (pink, green, yellow for the flower center)
• Tape
• Blindfold
• Chalk or marker

Thank You Flowers
Since writing thank you cards is something that I always have trouble keeping up with, we decided to give everyone their "thank you" when they left the party.
Supplies Needed:

• 14 inch dowel rods
• Green Paint
• Flower Graphic with Thank You message printed on it
• Clear Tape

Paint the dowel rods green, to look like a stem of a flower. Tape the thank you message onto the top of the dowel rod and insert into each of the guests' decorated flower pots. Miraculously, their planted seeds grew into a very thankful flower during the party!

Bird Nests

While visiting a friend with a lake cabin up in Hayward, Wisconsin, I was pleasantly surprised to find  Grandma Ferdon's production house which sells gluten free food! As one of my vacation souvenirs, I took home a bag of their Chow Mein noodles. Delicious! With spring upon us and Easter fast approaching, I tried to think of a way to put these chow mein noodles to work in a creative way other than the typical Asian stir fry dish. Why not make the ever popular and oh so easy little bird nests? My kids thoroughly enjoyed plopping the "eggs" into each of these nests. Don't worry. You don't need to travel up to Hayward to get your own bag of chow mein noodles. You can order them online.

Bird Nests
2 cups Ghirardelli semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup Jif creamy peanut butter
2 cups gluten free chow mein noodles (Grandma Ferdon's)
Jellybeans (Lifesavers brand are gluten free)

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place chocolate chips and peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl and melt in the microwave. Stir melted mixture. Add chow mein noodles and gently stir until fully coated. Drop by tablespoonful onto the lined baking sheet. Form into a nest shape using your fingers. Place a few of the colored jellybeans into the center as "eggs".

Flower Pot Cupcakes

When I ran across this in a magazine, I knew I just had to re-create it for my daughter's birthday. Although it looks complicated, it is really pretty easy to put together. The cupcakes are gluten and dairy free, made from Betty Crocker's gluten free chocolate cake mix and frosted with Pillsbury's strawberry frosting. When I contacted Pillsbury, I was happy to know that all of their frostings, with the exception of their Coconut Pecan flavor are gluten free.

Supplies Needed:

• Terra cotta flower pot
• Styrofoam ball (cut in half)
• Toothpicks
• 8-10 gluten/dairy free cupcakes (unfrosted, bake these in baking cups)
• Pillsbury Strawberry Frosting
• Large ziploc bag
• Frosting tip (#104 Wilton)
• Artificial leaves, artificial grass

Insert cut styrofoam ball into terra cotta pot. It will serve as the base for holding the cupcakes. Insert two toothpicks about halfway into the styrofoam. Gently place a cupcake on top, so that the toothpicks hold it securely in place. Continue inserting toothpicks and placing cupcakes on top until cupcakes are covering the flower pot.

Take the large ziploc bag and, using scissors, snip off a small corner. This is going to become your homemade frosting bag. Insert the frosting tip through the opening, just so it sticks through the bag. Fill the ziploc bag with the strawberry frosting, squeezing out any air pockets. Pipe the frosting around the cupcakes in a rose-petal fashion. Embellish with artificial leaves and grass.

Easy Roasted Potatoes

These potatoes are so easy and so delicious at the same time. The crispiness of the roasted potatoes makes it a yummy side dish to any weeknight recipe. Mix up the types of potatoes you use for a little change.

Easy Roasted Potatoes
3 lbs quartered potatoes (red, sweet, yukon, gold)
3-4 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp pepper to taste


Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place quartered potatoes in a large bowl. Add olive oil to bowl, mixing with your hands to ensure potatoes are sufficiently covered. Spread quartered potatoes in pan and add salt and pepper. Bake uncovered for 50-60 minutes until browned and slightly crispy.

Party Chicken

This recipe is an adaptation of one of my mother-in-law's recipes. It is always a hit at parties (hence the name) and family gatherings.

Party Chicken
3 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half, lengthwise)
1 (16 oz.) package bacon (Hormel, Applegate farms are two gluten free brands)
1 (2 oz.) package Carl Buddig beef lunch meat


White Mushroom Sauce
1 (8 oz.) package of mushrooms, chopped
2 cloves garlic
2 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp Earth Balance spread
2 tbsp brown rice flour
1 tsp potato starch
1 cup chicken stock (Rachael Ray, Kitchen Basics are gluten free brands)
1/2 cup Silk Almond Milk (original flavor)
Salt and Pepper to taste



Preheat oven to 275 degrees. Heat olive oil in large pan, add garlic, and saute for 2-3 minutes. Add mushrooms and continue to saute. Once mushrooms are cooked, remove from pan and set aside. In the same large pan, melt the Earth Balance spread. Add the brown rice flour and potato starch and whisk until it forms a thick consistency (roux). Slowly add the chicken stock and almond milk and continue whisking until it reaches a creamy consistency. Add the cooked mushrooms back into sauce and stir. Add salt and pepper to taste.

In a 9 x 13 baking pan, spread the Carl Buddig lunch meat on the bottom of the pan. Wrap a slice of bacon around each chicken breast and place in pan on top of the lunch meat.  Pour white mushroom sauce over the chicken and bake uncovered for approximately 3 hours. Chicken should be very tender when ready.

Vegetable Quiche

I had a little trepidation the first time I attempted to make quiche without cream, butter and cheese. Does it really qualify as quiche without those key ingredients? I had my cheese-loving sis over for lunch the other day and made this quiche. Her response? "It's really good. I don't even miss the cheese and I love cheese!" This recipe has a mix of spring vegetables, but you can add whatever vegetables you have on-hand. The Parma! vegan parmesan helps give it a hint of cheese flavor. This one will be on our Easter brunch menu and can be enjoyed warm or cold.

Crust
This crust recipe is taken from Nestle/Libby's Gluten Free Pie Crust recipe. I just adapted it to be dairy free.


1 cup white rice flour
1/2 cup potato starch
1/2 cup tapioca flour
1/4 tsp salt
6 tbsp cold Earth Balance vegan shortening, cut into small pieces
1 large egg, beaten
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
3 to 4 tbsp ice water


Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Combine potato starch, tapioca flour and salt in medium bowl. Cut in butter until mixture is crumbly. Form well in center. Add egg and vinegar; stirring gently until just blended. Sprinkle with water. Blend wet and dry mixtures together with a fork and clean hands until it just holds together and forms a ball. Divide ball in half, wrapping one half in plastic wrap for later use. Place remaining half on lightly floured (use rice flour) sheet of wax paper. Top with additional piece of wax paper. Roll out dough to desired thickness, remove top sheet of wax paper and invert dough into a 9-inch pie plate. Slowly peel away wax paper. Place empty pie crust in oven and bake for 15 minutes.

Filling
6 eggs
1/3 cup Silk Almond milk (original flavor)
3/4 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 tsp Parma! Vegan Parmesan
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp basil

1/2 cup leek (chopped)
2 cups assorted chopped vegetables (carrots, asparagus, red bell pepper)
2 handfuls baby spinach leaves
2 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic (minced)

Once crust is finished pre-baking, remove from oven and reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees. Heat the olive oil in saute pan. Add minced garlic and chopped leeks and saute for 2-3 minutes. Add the chopped vegetables and continue to saute. When the vegetables a crispy soft, add the baby spinach and seasonings and continue to saute until spinach is slightly wilted. Remove from heat. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and almond milk together, adding seasonings (salt, pepper, Parma!, basil, and oregano). Take vegetable from saute pan and pour them into the pre-baked crust. Add the egg mixture and pour over the vegetables. Bake 35-40 minutes or until egg mixture is set and golden.

Almost Gluten Free Goldfish Crackers

In our attempt to find a gluten free replacement for the elusive, bright orange Goldfish cracker, we recently tried a new product, Cheese Bites, from Schar. The verdict? Yummy! They do contain real cheese, and therefore milk, so I could not take part in the taste test. Of the three remaining in our household (two of which eat gluten), everyone agreed that they are a tasty, cheesy cracker. Here is the breakdown:

• Husband: "These are light and cheesy. I actually like them better than goldfish."
• Daughter: She was too busy devouring them to provide commentary. Just a thumbs up. Way up!
• Son:  "These are good mommy. These are better than fishies because they have triangles and square and circles too."

Hmm....educational crackers?

Against the Grain - A Sampling of Great Gluten Free Breads

Is good gluten free bread an oxymoron? I used to think so. I can recall bringing home loaves of gluten free bread from the grocery store that literally made a "thud" noise when dropped on my kitchen counter. Bread shouldn't do that. I can also recall trying to make a sandwich with two pieces of gluten free bread, only to have them collapse into two useless piles of crumbs. I must say that I have come across some really good tasting breads, english muffins, and bagels lately that rival gluten containing breads. Look for whole grain varieties, and you can boost your fiber intake a bit too. Below are a few of my favorites.

Udi's
I've jumped on the Udi's bandwagon. Their white and whole grain sandwich bread is fabulous. It toasts very well, holds up to sandwich fixins', and tastes delicious. Their bagels are monstrous and my son's favorite. Check on their website for a $1.00 off coupon because a small loaf is usually over $5!

Deerfield's Bakery
Available online through their bakery website, in Whole Foods Markets throughout Chicagoland, and in some specialty stores (All Ways Healthy in Lake Zurich carries the baguettes), the Deerfield's rice bran mini baguettes and dinner rolls are the chewiest, most delectable gluten free breads I've tasted. A real treat.


Kinnikinnick
Tapioca Rice New York Style Plain Bagels are a morning favorite in our house, but Kinnikinnick makes a variety of breads and bagels that are chewy and great when warmed or toasted.

Enjoy Life
Placing one of their Classic Original Bagels next to an Udi's bagel is almost comical. It is half the size with the same amount of calories. This bagel is a little powerhouse though. It is very dense, has a slight sweetness to it, and is loaded with nutrients. It is very good warmed up with peanut butter slathered on top.


Food for Life
The Brown Rice English Muffins are the perfect housing for eggs as a breakfast sandwich or lunchtime snack. They toast up well and are a good source of fiber (4 grams for the whole muffin). The White Rice and Brown Rice breads are dense but yummy too.

Breadsmith
Located throughout Chicagoland, Breadsmith's bakery makes gluten containing breads and pastries, as well as gluten free breads and muffins on certain days of the week. You can buy them and then freeze for later use, but be sure to call ahead to place your gluten free order. I've tried several of their gluten free breads, along with their pizza crusts, muffins, and cookies (these contain dairy). There is a sweetness to their baked goods which makes them great as a dessert bread, in french toast, or topped with sweet spreads such as peanut butter and jelly.

French Quarter Flavors for Mardi Gras - Jambalaya

New Orleans is full of so many interesting sights, sounds, and flavors. No better time to celebrate the spirit of New Orleans than during Mardi Gras this week. This Jambalaya dish is taken from Emeril Lagasse's cookbook, "New New Orleans Cooking" and adapted to be gluten free. Emeril has a pleasantly surprising number of products that are gluten free, including his Essence seasoning that I use below. Chock full of shrimp, chicken, and andouille sausage, this jambalaya stands as a meal all by itself. Don some beads and you're ready to eat!

Jambalaya
1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and chopped
1 cup boneless skinless chicken breast, chopped
1 cup gluten free andouille sausage (Aidells Cajun Style Andouille, Al fresco Roasted Garlic are two brands)
2-3 Tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 cup chopped celery
4 cloves minced garlic
1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
3 bay leaves
1 tsp worcestershire sauce (Lee & Perrin's brand is gluten free)
1 Tbsp Emeril's Essence (Original or Bayou Blast)
1 tsp salt
3 turns freshly ground pepper
3 cups cooked brown rice couscous or cooked brown rice (Lundberg's brand makes a gluten free rice couscous)

In a bowl, combine shrimp, chicken, and seasoning until well blended. Heat 2-3 tablespoons of the olive oil in a pan, adding the shrimp and chicken. Stir for 1-2 minutes, then add the sausage, onions, peppers, celery, and garlic and stir fry for an additional 1-2 minutes. Add in tomatoes, bay leaves, worcestershire sauce, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Add the cooked brown rice couscous and let simmer for 5 more minutes until flavors are combined. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

In the News...

Here are some new research findings and product offerings pertaining to celiac disease.

Celiac Disease - Asthma Connection

A recent study of Swedish patients with celiac disease showed an increased risk of developing asthma when compared to patients Swedish patients without the condition. Likewise, those patients who had asthma also had an increased risk of developing celiac disease. Full article published in Reuters.

University of Chicago Mouse Model Study Suggest Clues to Celiac Disease

University of Chicago's Celiac Disease Center is at the forefront of celiac research and has created a mouse model to study the triggers leading to the development of celiac disease, along with its relationship to other autoimmune diseases such as Type-1 diabetes. New research findings point to a biochemical interaction that may trigger the autoimmune response in celiac disease. Full article published in USA Today. 

Coming Soon - Kellogg's to Offer Gluten Free Rice Krispies

I contacted Kellogg's consumer line and received confirmation that they will be offering a gluten free version of their Rice Krispies cereal in May 2011. The representative could not provide me with information about any additional products being made available, but get those marshmallows ready for the Rice Krispie Treats!

Subway is Testing Gluten Free Products

Subway is currently testing a line of gluten free sandwich buns and a gluten free brownie dessert in their Texas market.

Kim & Scott's Now Offer Gluten Free Pretzels 

The famous soft pretzels that so many of us moms and kids have enjoyed at the Kohl Children's Museum now has a gluten free pretzel offering. I'm looking forward to trying one of these!

Just in Time for Easter! Annie's Offers Gluten Free Bunny Cookies

Annie's brand, known for providing organic versions of many comfort foods and snacks, now offers Gluten Free Bunny Cookies. Available varieties are Vanilla/Chocolate bunnies, SnickerDoodle, and GingerSnap (contains milk). 

Semi-homemade Chocolate Cupcakes with Vanilla Coconut Frosting

We are always looking for something sweet in this house after dinner. Short on time, I headed to the freezer and pulled out some unfrosted chocolate cupcakes I had made using Betty Crocker's Gluten Free Devil's Food Cake Mix. Once re-heated in the microwave, they were just as moist and chocolately as the day I had made them. Now, how to frost them. We concocted a Vanilla Coconut Frosting that tasted great with sweetened coconut shavings for garnish. I used Bob's Red Mill Organic Coconut Flour in the frosting to give it that hint of coconut and a little fiber boost. This cupcake was worth a few extra minutes on the treadmill tomorrow morning!

Vanilla Coconut Frosting
1/4 cup Earth Balance Vegan Shortening Sticks
3 Tbsp Tofutti Imitation Cream Cheese (no butterfat version)
1 tsp Mc Cormick's Pure Vanilla Extract
1 cup C & H Powdered Sugar
2-3 Tbsp Silk Vanilla flavored Almond Milk
1 Tbsp Bob's Red Mill Organic High Fiber Coconut Flour
Baker's Angel Flake Sweetened Coconut for garnish

In a blender, combine the Earth Balance shortening and Tofutti Cream Cheese. Blend at medium-high speed until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and coconut flour. Add in vanilla extract and almond milk, blending until desired consistency is reached. Garnish with sweetened coconut flakes. This recipe generously frosted 6 cupcakes.

Semi-homemade GF/CF Pizza

At the end of a long day, it is really nice to have dinner be a simple phone call away. You dial your favorite pizza joint and 30 minutes later, dinner arrives at your door. Unfortunately, gluten free/casein free pizza delivery has not yet arrived to McHenry county, so it is up to me to either create my own pizza or pull one of the pricey, pre-made gluten free pizzas from my freezer. Amy's brand does make some pretty tasty dairy free pizzas with a rice flour crust available in the freezer section of select supermarkets. When you are looking for a homemade taste but are short on time, here is a semi-homemade recipe to try. You can swap in any pre-made gluten free crust, but I really enjoy the Breadsmith's seasoned pizza crust. They are available in most all Breadsmith bakery locations throughout Chicagoland. You can buy them and then freeze for later use, but be sure to call ahead to place your gluten free order. Most Breadsmith locations dedicate a certain day of the week to baking their gluten free items.

Semi-homemade Sausage and Veggie Pizza
1 pre-made gluten/casein free pizza crust (Breadsmith seasoned crust)
1 8 oz. package Daiya Deliciously Dairy Free Mozzarella Style Shreds
1 jar Classico Marinara with Plum Tomatoes and Olive Oil
2-3 links Al Fresco Sweet Italian Style Chicken Sausage, chopped
Chopped sweet peppers (red, yellow, orange)
Baby spinach leaves

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Thaw pizza crust (if previously frozen) and spread marinara sauce on top of crust. Generously layer chopped sausage, chopped sweet peppers, spinach, and Daiya cheese shreds on top of crust. Bake 20 minutes or until cheese melts and crust is golden brown.

Springtime Meal - Pork Loin Chops in Red Wine Sauce, Asparagus and Mushroom Risotto

March has finally arrived, and we are on the cusp of Spring. I felt optimistic seeing the sun shine brightly over the still frozen Chicago ground today and melt the last bits of remaining snow.  So, I decided to add some fresh asparagus to our risotto this evening, and it added just the right flavors. Try this risotto recipe with the pork chops and you won't be disappointed. Credit to the cookbook "Tastes from a Tuscan Kitchen" by Madeline Armillotta and Diane Nocentini for their Pork Chops with Sage and Chianti recipe that I adapted here.

Pork Chops in Red Wine Sauce
4 tbsp olive oil
5 pork loin chops
2 cloves of minced garlic
1 tsp dried parsley flakes
1 tbsp ground sage
12 ounces of cherry tomatoes
3/4 cup red cooking wine (Holland House brand is gluten free)

Heat the olive oil in a skillet, browning the pork chops. Add the minced garlic, parsley, and sage and saute with the chops. Add the cooking wine and cherry tomatoes and simmer for 30-45 minutes, allowing sauce to reduce and pork chops to tenderize.

Asparagus and Mushroom Risotto
1 1/2 cups uncooked Arborio Rice (Rice Select is one brand that is gluten free)
4 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup white wine
4 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth (Pacific Foods, Kitchen Basics Chicken Stock and Swanson's Natural Goodness are all gluten free brands)
Salt and Pepper to taste
1 bunch roasted asparagus (chopped into bite sized pieces)
1 10 oz. package of mushrooms (chopped)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees for roasting the asparagus. They can roast while the risotto is cooking. For risotto, saute onion and mushroom in oil until onions are translucent. Add rice and stir for 2-3 minutes. Slowly add the white wine. Add 1 cup of broth to the pan and continue stirring until liquid is absorbed. Continue adding broth, 1 cup at a time, cooking and stirring until all liquid is absorbed. While risotto is cooking, wash and pat dry asparagus. Lay asparagus on cooking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Toss asparagus to make sure all spears are lightly coated with the oil. Place in preheated oven and roast until crispy soft (approx. 10 minutes). Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and slice into bite sized pieces. When risotto has absorbed the last remaining broth, add the asparagus pieces and gently stir into risotto before serving.

Local Dining Options

With the growing awareness of gluten free living and recent celebrity endorsements of a "gluten free" diet come an increase in the number of restaurants that now offer gluten free options. It seems gluten free restaurant menus are popping up everywhere! This comes as a mixed blessing to those of us with celiac though because some restaurants out there offering gluten free options don't quite get it, e.g. brushing the croutons off a salad as it is being served to you, etc.

Below is a list I have started compiling of restaurants in McHenry county as well as the Chicagoland area that either provide a gluten free menu or accommodating gluten and dairy allergies. Please let me know if you have a restaurant that you'd recommend adding to this list or one that should be removed from this list!

Algonquin

Biaggi's: I've eaten here several times and have had a pleasant experience each time. The Grilled Chicken Pietro is my personal favorite.

Bonefish Grill: I've had several, delicious dinners here. I order off of the gluten free menu and ask the server to have the chef use oil instead of butter for any sauteing of vegetables or fish. I LOVE their Bonefish House salad.

Bistro Wasabi: Located on Algonquin Rd in Lake in the Hills, this is one of the best sushi restaurants I've found in the suburbs. It has an urban feel and a great selection of fresh sushi, as well as appetizers and main meals. In talking with the manager, I learned that they have accommodated many patrons with food allergies and can modify menu items to meet your needs. You are also welcome to bring in your own, gluten free soy sauce to use at your table.

Arlington Heights

La Tasca: They carry a variety of tapas that can be made gluten and dairy free. Unfortunately, most dessert items contain gluten or dairy. Fresh fruit is always an option.

Barrington

Barrington Gourmet: I have not eaten here yet, but did have a lengthy conversation with one of the owners on the phone about the menu. She informed me that a local teacher with celiac spent quite a bit of time working with the owner and chef on their menu, teaching them about ingredients and cooking gluten free. They currently do not offer a dairy free cheese for their gluten free pizzas, but their homemade gluten free brownies are also dairy free!

Egg Harbor: I recently dined there and was my server's first gluten free customer. We talked over their gluten free menu and substitutions for making them dairy free, and I had a very yummy salad with grilled chicken. Their dressing was not gluten free, so my server brought over several packets of Kraft salad dressings for me to choose from. My son enjoyed one of their gluten free lettuce wrap sandwiches. He didn't even complain that he couldn't have their Rainbow Pancake!

Francesca's: (located throughout Chicagoland) I've eaten at several of the Francesca's restaurants throughout Chicagoland and have had great experiences. They have a varied selection of gluten free items, and at the Arlington Heights location, crusty gluten free bread. Did you hear that? Warm, crusty gluten free bread!!!

South Barrington

Cooper's Hawk: My husband and I dined here last year for our anniversary. I spoke with our server about preparing some of their gluten free menu options so they could accommodate my dairy allergy. After enjoying a few glasses from their winery, I ordered the scallops with asparagus and rice. When my food was ready, the manager personally delivered it to the table and made sure it met my needs. Impressive, especially for a busy Saturday night!

Anna Shea Chocolate Shop: We stopped here after our dinner up the way at Cooper's Hawk. There is a multitude of decadent chocolate confections. Unfortunately, most all contain dairy. They do offer gelato which is free from gluten and dairy, as well as a dark chocolate bar. The cashier called the owner at home to ask about the ingredients in the chocolate bar, so we could confirm it was gluten and dairy free. They also offer soy milk for their espresso and coffee drinks!

Pinstripes: I haven't had a chance to get out here yet, but have heard rave reviews from other moms. I need to bring the kids to their Mom & Tot times. My son would be so excited to bowl and eat from their gluten free menu! They do request 24-hour notice for ordering their gluten free pasta.

Claim Jumper

Cary

Tapas Calpe/Orchard Prime Meats: Not only do they have the best cuts of meat in town, they have a tasty tapas menu for an evening out. I spoke to the owner and the chef can work with gluten free patrons to modify menu selections. The menu and specials change frequently, so they can prepare items with olive oil instead of butter, omit cheese, etc. http://www.tapascalpeofcary.com/menu_calpe.html

Cary Country Club: They are currently undergoing renovation and have new management in the restaurant. Stay tuned for updates, but I will be meeting with their chefs in March about adding some gluten free menu options.

Crystal Lake

Benedict's La Strata: (located in Dundee as well) They have several omelet and salad options that are gluten free. They have accommodated my dairy free needs as well, by eliminating cheese or cooking omelets in oil rather than butter. They also offer gluten free pancakes, however they do contain milk.

Duke's Ale House: They offer several gluten free menu options that can be modified to eliminate dairy plus GF Hard Cider and wines.

Wild Orchid Thai Bistro: Many of their menu options are naturally gluten free. They have had regular gluten free patrons, so can make accommodations. I stopped in and spoke with the manager for quite a while about their menu and some gluten and dairy free options include: salads, noodle dishes (substitute rice noodles for larger noodles), fried rice, and classic thai curries. They have a special gluten-free soy sauce that they use for gluten free patrons.

Nick's Pizza and Pub: (located in Elgin as well) Aside from the fun peanut shells you can toss on the floor, they have a special gluten free pizza crust that comes in its own pan. I order mine loaded with veggies and without cheese. My son has had the cheese and sausage many times. Yeah for a yummy gluten free pizzeria!

Lake Zurich

Julio's Cocina Latina: I've eaten here several times and never been disappointed. A friendly, attentive staff that truly understand gluten and dairy allergies. They have a wide variety of items on their menu and even indicate those items that can be easily made dairy free.

Walker Bros. Original Pancake House: They offer gluten free pancakes that are cooked on a separate grill from other menu items. Unfortunately, the pancakes do contain dairy (cultured buttermilk is one of the ingredients).

McHenry
Paisano's: Located on Broadway St. in Richmond, this Italian restaurant offers gluten free pasta.


Schaumburg

Big Bowl: They have a separate gluten free menu. Their pad thai is to die for!

Maggiano's: They carry gluten free pasta.

Wildfire: They have a wonderful gluten free menu and bring warm gluten free bread to the table! Unfortunately, it contains dairy.

Woodstock

Expressly Leslie Vegetarian Specialties

Woodstock Public House: (also own Williams St. Public House in Crystal Lake) They offer a gluten-free menu, but when I inquired about fried items on the menu, I was told that french fries and other items share the same fryer as gluten items. All sandwiches listed on the menu are "naked" i.e. without a bun.

Throughout Chicagoland

Aurelio's: They offer a gluten free pizza crust that comes in its own pan.

PF Chang's

Chipotle

Downtown Chicago
The number of available gluten free dining options downtown seems to be growing by the day, but below are a few places that I've personally enjoyed:
Adobo Grill

Feast

Hub 51

Zapatista

Blackberry Apple Smoothie

We pulled the blender out again this morning to try a slightly different smoothie concoction. Success! This one makes good use of leftover blackberries and frozen blueberries.

Blackberry Apple Smoothie

1/2 pint blackberries
1/2 cup frozen blueberries
1 banana
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup Silk vanilla flavored soy yogurt
1/2 cup Vanilla flavored almond milk
1 heaping tablespoon rice protein powder (I use NutriBiotic brand - Plain. For those that can have dairy, you can use a gluten free whey protein powder instead)

Dash of vanilla extract (McCormick brand)

1-2 tablespoons agave nectar

Crushed ice

Add all ingredients into blender and blend until smooth. 

Take Me Out to the Ball Game!

I know it seems like an eternity before spring and baseball season will arrive, but since players are reporting to spring training, it got me thinking. Last summer, we were fortunate enough to score a sitter for the entire day to enjoy a Cubs game on a sunny July afternoon. I was a little concerned when I started thinking about what my dining options would be at Wrigley Field. After a phone call and lengthy conversation with the head of Wrigley's concessions, I was pleasantly surprised to know that they offer a few gluten free options at several of their concession areas (Sheffield Grill, Brew House) for those gluten intolerant fans.

We had bleacher seats, but I sent my husband on the beer run and he located a frosty Redbridge beer for me from one of the concession areas. Other snacks that are offered include gluten free gummy bears for the kids and pistachios. They do check bags and purses upon entering the field, but you are welcome to bring in your own lunch or snack which I did do.

Not to exclude our South Side fans, I investigated gluten free food at US Cellular Field as well. They have even more dining options which include sandwiches and hot dogs on gluten free bread and buns, nachos, ice cream, chocolate chip cookies, and Bard's Tale gluten free beer.

So, start looking for those opening game tickets!


Chicago Cubs - Wrigley Field Concessions

http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/chc/ballpark/fanmap_field.jsp

Chicago White Sox - US Cellular Field Concessions
http://chicago.whitesox.mlb.com/cws/ballpark/attractions/index.jsp?content=concessions

Pumpkin Spice Muffins

I know pumpkin usually conjures up images of cool, crisp days, fall leaves, and Halloween. Pumpkin is really a versatile food that can be used year-round. You can mix it into soups and chili as well as breakfast breads or pancakes. These muffins are a great way to start the day, get a little extra dose of fiber, and use up any leftover pumpkin you may have sitting in your fridge.


Pumpkin Spice Muffins

1/2 cup millet flour
1/2 cup sorghum flour
1/4 cup brown rice flour
1/4 cup tapioca starch
3/4 tsp xanthan gum
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1 cup canned pumpkin
1/2 cup canola oil
1 egg
1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water (mix and let sit for 2 minutes)
1/4 cup water
1 tsp vanilla
1 3/4 tsp McCormick's Pumpkin Pie Spice
1/4 cup chopped, roasted walnuts
1/4 cup raisins

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Line 12-muffin pan with paper baking cups. Mix together the dry ingredients - flour, salt, xanthan gum, baking soda, and pumpkin spice. In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin, sugar, oil, egg, flaxseed meal mixture, vanilla and water. Add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Fold in nuts and raisins. Pour into muffin cups and bake 24 minutes until slightly golden. Remove muffins from pan and let cool on a rack.

Let Them Eat (GF/CF) Cake!

I enjoy expressing my artistic side, so when my son and daughter's birthdays approach, I start scouring the Internet for cute birthday cake ideas. A Disney character is usually on the top of their list of themed cakes, but it can vary depending upon their current favorite activity or toy of choice.

Inspired by the recent Cake Boss and Ace of Cakes reality shows, I decided to venture into the world of fondant covered cakes. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that fondant can easily be made with gluten and casein free ingredients. Use McCormick's food colorings, the fondant recipe below, a Betty Crocker gluten free cake mix, Pillsbury vanilla frosting, and voila, you have a celiac-friendly and very festive decorated cake. Here are some of the favorite cakes I have made, along with a brief description of what I used to make the cake. My cakes are far from perfect, but I have to admit it is a bit of messy fun rolling and forming the fondant shapes. The expression on the kids' faces when they are surprised with a fighter jet or tea cup are priceless too!

Fondant Recipe
1 lb Jet Puffed white mini marshmallows
2 lbs C & H Powdered Sugar
2-5 Tbsp. Water
1/2 cup Crisco Vegetable Shortening (sticks or tub)


Peggy Weaver's Baking Corner provides an excellent breakdown of the steps for creating fondant. I won't lie - it is a messy process and does take some time to create the various colors.

Springtime Flowers and Butterflies
This was a lot of fun to create for my daughter's 4th birthday. This cake was constructed using two 9-inch cake rounds placed on top of one another with a third, smaller round cake on the very top. I used Betty Crocker's gluten free yellow and chocolate cake mixes and Pillsbury's chocolate frosting as the layer beneath the pink fondant. The grass, flowers and butterflies are all made from fondant dyed pink, green, and yellow. The two large butterfly embellishments are not edible.

Tea Pot Cake
For this cake, I used a 1 1/2 quart ovenproof bowl and made 2 cakes that laid on top of one another. The handle and spout were made using pink card stock. This cake was frosted with Pillsbury Vanilla Frosting tinted yellow. There is a wrapped Hershey's kiss on the lid of the pot - not casein free :(

Blue Angel Fighter Jet Cake
This cake started as a single sheet cake that was cut into a fuselage, a set of wings, and a tail. The standing tail section was created using two Marshmallow Crispies secured with bamboo skewers. Glenny's Brown Rice Marshmallow Treat are gluten and casein free. The runway was constructed using black and yellow construction paper.

Under the Sea Cake

I think I had the most fun with this cake. The Little Mermaid has always been one of my favorite Disney movies. This cake was constructed using two 9-inch cake rounds placed on top of one another with a third, smaller round cake on the very top. Ariel and her seashell came courtesy of my daughter's toy bin. Flounder, Sebastian, and the other undersea creatures were my own creation.

Lightning McQueen Cake
This cake was probably the most challenging to construct because of all of the rounded edges and fin at the back of the car. It also took quite a bit of red food coloring to achieve the dark red hue. I started with a sheet cake again, and this time cut a smaller, curved piece to place on top as the windshield and roof. The fin is actually a piece of cardboard that I inserted in the back at an angle before covering with fondant. The wheels are made using Kinnikinnick chocolate dipped donuts (gluten and casein free).

Lego Man Cake
This was very quick and easy to create for my son's 6th birthday party. This took 4 Betty Crocker gluten free cake mixes and ended up containing 4 9-inch cake rounds stacked one on top of another with some reserved for the smaller, lego top. The frosting was simply Pillsbury Vanilla frosting tinted yellow.

Biscotti Break

I found myself reminiscing about past vacations to Italy the other day, so I decided to try and re-create a bit of the experience here at home. I will provide details and helpful tips about traveling overseas with celiac in a separate post, but for now, wanted to share this recipe for chocolate chip biscotti.  Buon Appetito!

Chocolate Chip Biscotti
1 cup brown rice flour
1/2 cup sorghum flour
1/2 cup quinoa flour
1/4 cup tapioca flour
1 Tbsp. cocoa powder (Hershey's Natural Unsweetened)
1 tsp. espresso ground coffee
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. xantham gum
1/2 tsp. sea salt
2 large eggs
1 tsp McCormick's pure vanilla extract
3 Tbsp. Earth Balance Vegan Spread (softened)
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (Guittard or Ghirardelli are gluten and casein free)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a bowl whisk together the gluten free flours, cocoa powder, espresso, baking powder, xantham gum, and salt.  In another bowl, mix together the earth balance spread and sugar until creamy.  Add eggs and vanilla and beat until combined well. Stir in flour mixture until a stiff dough is formed. Stir in chocolate chips.

On a greased baking sheet  (I use Air Bake insulated cookie sheets) form dough into a semi-flattened log.  Bake for 20 minutes or until slightly firm.  Let biscotti log cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes.

Either carefully on the baking sheet or on a cutting board, slice the log into half inch slices at a diagonal. Arrange the biscotti cut side down in rows back on the baking sheet.

Reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees. Bake biscotti for another 10-15 minutes until they are slightly brown and crisp.

Brew a nice pot of hot coffee and dunk to your heart's content!

Chicken Soup for the Celiac Soul

To follow on my previous post of gluten and casein free medications, probably the best medicine when you are feeling under the weather is a nice, hot bowl of chicken soup. I load mine up with a few extra veggies and noodles.

Chicken Noodle Vegetable Soup

1 Tbspn. olive oil
1/4 cup onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
2 small carrots, chopped
1/2 cup parsley, chopped
2 cups chicken, cooked
3/4 cup potato, cooked and cut up into chunks
3/4 cup lima beans, cooked
2 quarts gluten free reduced sodium chicken broth or stock (Pacific Natural Brands, Swanson's Natural Goodness, or Kitchen Basics Chicken Cooking Stock)
1 1/2 cups uncooked gluten free penne pasta (Tinkyada brand holds up best)
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp McCormick's poultry seasoning
1/2 tsp sea salt
fresh ground pepper to taste

Heat olive oil in stock pot and saute onion and celery until translucent (4-5 minutes). Add carrots, parsley and chicken broth to pot and bring to a boil. Add seasonings and let simmer for 10 minutes. Add chicken, lima beans, potatoes and uncooked pasta. Continue to simmer 15 minutes or until pasta is done. Serves 6.

Enjoy with Glutino gluten free original crackers or Ener-G wheat-free table crackers.

Go Team! Superbowl Appetizer Ideas

It's that time of year again where I scramble for some good snacks to make for the big Superbowl game. If you are like me, the high point of the afternoon is usually the commercials, the half time show, and the food. Fresh fruit and veggies are always a healthy alternative on game day, but when you are looking for something a little more indulgent, here are a few things to try.

Bacon Wrapped Dates with Almonds
There are several brands of gluten free bacon out on the market, including Hormel, Oscar Mayer and Wright's brand. I prefer Hormel's Natural Choice because it is free of nitrates and nitrites as well.

1 lb of Gluten Free Bacon
1 package Whole Almonds
1 (8 oz.) package of Dole Whole Pitted Dates
Toothpicks

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place almonds on a baking sheet and bake until toasted. Remove from oven and let cool. Take bacon from package and cut into half slices. To assemble appetizers, stuff date with almond and wrap with a half slice of bacon. Place individual appetizers onto aluminum foil lined baking sheet. Once baking sheet is full, place appetizer in oven and cook until bacon is browned and crispy. Remove from oven and place on paper towel lined plate, to absorb excess grease. Insert toothpicks into appetizers to serve.

Didn't Know They were Coming Taco Dip
In my former gooey cheesy existence, this was a simple and delicious appetizer to prepare for a gathering. With the dairy modifications, it still is just as easy and tasty too!

2 (8 oz.) tubs Tofutti Imitation Cream Cheese (No Butterfat version has no trans fats)
1 can Hormel Chili (Regular Beef with Beans, Chunky and Low Sodium varieties are gluten free)
2 (8 oz.) pkgs. Daiya brand Cheddar Style Shreds
1 Bag of Gluten Free Tortilla Chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spread both tubs of Tofutti cream cheese in the bottom of a 9x13 oven-safe glass dish. Spread chili on top of cream cheese. Then sprinkle Daiya Cheddar style shreds on top. Place in oven and cook for 10-15 minutes or until cheese melts on top. Dip chips! Being from Chicago, El Milagro brand of tortilla chips are my favorite.

Asparagus Roll-Ups
The combination of flavors with the bacon, creamed cheese and asparagus is always a hit.

16 Fresh Asparagus Spears
16 slices Udi's Gluten Free Bread (crust removed)
1 (8 oz.) tub Tofutti Imitation Cream Cheese - No Butterfat (this version does not have any trans fats)
8 Gluten Free Bacon Strips, cooked and crumbled
2 Tbspn. Fresh or Dried Chives
1/4 cup Earth Balance Vegan Spread, melted

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cook asparagus until crisp tender. Flatten bread with a rolling pin. Combine the imitation cream cheese, bacon and chives. Spread 1 tablespoonful onto each slice of bread. Top with an asparagus spear. Roll up tightly. Place seam side down on a greased baking sheet and brush with butter. Cut roll-ups in half. Place onto baking sheet and bake 10-12 minutes. Makes 32 appetizers.

Helpful hint: You can make these the night before and refrigerate. Remove from refrigerator and cut just before baking, to make slicing easier.

Eggstremely Easy Egg Salad

When I tell people that I have a dairy allergy, they often ask if I can have eggs. I wondered that myself when I was first diagnosed. There is often a misconception that eggs are a dairy product because they are found in the dairy section of a grocery store alongside milk, cream, butter and cheeses. Since they are not the by-product of a cow however, they are not considered dairy.

Now, I eat them with reckless abandon. Ok not that often, but I have re-discovered their potential as a great breakfast, lunch, and dinner option. I found myself hankering for a tangy egg salad sandwich the other day, but was pressed for time in between kindergarten drop-off, errands, and kindergarten pick-up. So, here is a very quick and very easy gluten and dairy free egg salad recipe.

Egg Salad

4 hard boiled eggs
1/4 cup Hellman's Real Mayonnaise
1/4 cup chopped celery
1 tsp French's yellow mustard
Sea salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Remove the shells from the 4 hard boiled eggs. Chop eggs and set aside. In a medium bowl, mix together mayonnaise and mustard. Add chopped celery and mix well. Gently add chopped eggs and season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with chopped parsley as garnish.

I like to enjoy this salad with a few leaves of spinach on a toasted "Food for Life" gluten free brown rice english muffin.

Headache, Chills, and Nausea Oh My!

There are several reasons I'd rather be elsewhere this time of year than in Chicagoland. Aside from it being bitter cold outside, our family usually seems to contract some sort of virus that overextends its stay in our household. Despite slathering on the "hanitizer", as my childen call the bottles of hand sanitizer scattered throughout our home, we are down for the count. Looking for some temporary relief, I turn to my medicine cabinet.

It is important during this cold and flu season to take a moment and check the ingredients of the medications you have on-hand, to verify that they are indeed gluten free. Below is a list of some common over-the-counter medications that I have personally verified with the manufacturer to be free of any gluten and dairy ingredients. DISCLAIMER: It's always good practice to double-check ingredients of any medication before consuming, as formulations of these medications can change at any time.

Stay Well!


Headache/Fever/Cold
TYLENOL (manufactured by MacNeil PPC) 

• Infants' TYLENOL® Drops Cherry 
• Infants' TYLENOL® Drops Grape
• Children’s TYLENOL® Meltaways Grape Punch 
• Children’s TYLENOL® Meltaways Bubblegum Burst 
• Children’s TYLENOL® Suspension Cherry Blast
•  Jr. TYLENOL® Meltaways Grape PunchJr. TYLENOL® Meltaways Bubblegum Burst 
• Extra Strength TYLENOL® Caplets 
• Regular Strength TYLENOL® Tablets 
• TYLENOL® Arthritis Pain Caplets 
• TYLENOL® 8 Hour Caplets 
• TYLENOL® PM Caplets 
• Simply Sleep® Caplets 
• TYLENOL® Sinus Severe Congestion 
• TYLENOL® Cold Severe Congestion Caplets

 Motrin

• Infants' Motrin® Drops 
• Infants' Motrin® Drops Dye-Free 
• Children’s Motrin® Suspension Grape
• Children’s Motrin® Suspension Berry 
• Children’s Motrin® Suspension Bubblegum 
• Children’s Motrin® Suspension Dye-Free 
• Children’s Motrin® Cold Suspension Berry (available behind the pharmacist’s counter) 
• Motrin® IB Caplets 
• Motrin® IB Tablets

Allergy/Sinus

• Benadryl
• Benadryl-D (Allergy and Sinus)
• Benadryl Allergy and Cold
• Sudafed
• Sudafed PE
• Sudafed Plus
• Sudafed Cold and Sinus Liquid Caps

Cough

• Delsym
• Mucinex ( Note: I've seen some reports online that Mucinex mini-melts for kids is no longer gluten-free)

Sore Throat

• Chloraseptic Spray (all flavors)
• Halls' Cough Drops (all flavors)

Stomach/Digestive

• IMODIUM^® Multi-Symptom Chewable Tablets
• IMODIUM^® A-D Caplets
• Gas-X
• TUMS (Note: On TUMS' website, they state that "there may be trace amounts of gluten in TUMS Smoothies Cocoa and Cream flavor via ingredients that are supplied by outside vendors. Other products of TUMS do not contain gluten.") 
• Prevacid
• Pepcid AC 10 mg Tables
• Pepcid Complete Chewable Mint Tablets
• Regular Strength Mylanta Liquid Original Flavor
• Maximum Strength Mylanta Liquid Original Flavor
• Maximum Strength Mylanta Gas Mint Tablets
  
  
  
  
  

I Heart Woodman's

I used to consider shopping at two to three different grocery stores plus the health food store part of my shopping "routine" until I discovered Woodman's in Carpentersville. It is still a good 20 minute drive from home, but in my opinion, well worth it for their selection and pricing of gluten free products. Half of my household still continue to eat gluten, so I need to purchase traditional grocery items as well as my specialty foods. Their pricing on all grocery items seems to be the best in the area. Overall, it is almost a third less than Jewel and Dominick's.

Woodman's has a wide variety of meats, fresh produce, cheeses, canned and dry goods, as well as frozen foods. They have two full aisles dedicated to gluten free/casein free and organic products, which include frozen gluten free entrees, breads, and dessert items. Numerous other, mainstream gluten and dairy free items can be found throughout the store in their respective sections.

Here are just a few of my favorites that are carried by Woodman's:

• Udi's Bread, Bagels, and Muffins
• Kinnickkinnick Bagels, Chocolate Donuts, and boxed cookies
• Schar's Classic White Rolls
• Food for Life Gluten Free English Muffins
• Tinkyada Pasta
• Van's Waffles (Berry Flax - yum!)
• Amy's Frozen Gluten Free/Dairy Free Pizzas
• Bob's Red Mill baking flours and mixes
• Handmade on Main Gluten Free Granolas
• Mesa Sunrise and Enjoy Life Cereals
• Koala Kids Snack Bars
• Glutino Breakfast Bars
• Almond Breeze, Rice Dream, Silk Almond Milks
• Tofutti Cream Cheese
• So Delicious Coconut Yogurts, Cultured Coconut Milk (Kefir), and ice cream varieties
• Gluten Freeda Gluten Free Frozen Burritos (great for a quick lunch or snack)
• Applegate Farms Organic Gluten/Casein Free Deli Meats

Plus much much more. The best part is that they have extra large carts with a built-in park bench! I strap the kids in to the bench seat, we cruise the cart over to the book/magazine section, and they pick out their favorite reading material for the ride. Now we are all set for a peaceful shopping experience :) 

Peanut Butter Bars

Okay, 2011 and its new year resolutions are well under way. Who says there isn't room in your healthful, balanced diet for a little sinful indulgence? I was always one to enjoy a few mini-Reese's peanut butter cups during my 3:00 slump, so this has become my new Reese's. This recipe comes courtesy of my mother-in-law. My husband has fond memories of these bars growing up, so I recently created a gluten and casein free version for our household. After cutting them into squares, I discreetly slide a few into the freezer for safekeeping. These go fast, so it's every man for himself!

Peanut Butter Bars

1 cup Earth Balance Vegan Spread, melted

2 cups gluten free Kinnikinnick Smoreables graham style cracker crumbs

2 cups confectioners’ sugar

1 cup and 4 tbsp. JIF peanut butter divided

1 ½ cups Ghirardelli semi-sweet chocolate chips

Mix together Earth Balance spread, graham crackers crumbs, confectioners’ sugar and 1 cup peanut butter until well blended. Press evenly into the bottom of an un-greased 9 x 13 pan.

Microwave the chocolate chips and the 4 tbsp peanut butter on high for 1 minute. Stir. Continue microwaving, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Spread over the prepared crust. Refrigerate for 1 hour before cutting into squares. Store bars in airtight container in refrigerator, but they are best enjoyed at room temperature.

Gluten Free Breakfast of Champions - The Smoothie

Since Wheaties are no longer a breakfast menu option in our household, we have turned our sights to the blender and its seemingly endless possibilities of breakfast concoctions. The kids look forward to choosing which fruit will succumb to the power of the blades as well as who gets first dibs on pressing "pulse" or "puree". For me, it's a great way to get some servings of fruit, good probiotics and a little dash of protein for sustained energy. Here's our recipe for a Good Morning Tropical Smoothie. Feel free to add whatever fruit you'd like – fresh or frozen. Heck, when the forecast is for 14 degrees and snow, I like to throw in a little paper drink umbrella and turn on some Caribbean steel drum music for good measure. Happy Day!

Good Morning Smoothie

1 banana

1 cup Kefir (I use So Delicious Brand Cultured Coconut Milk - Vanilla)

1 cup fresh or frozen fruit (strawberry, pineapple, blueberry, blackberry, raspberry or mango)

Dash of vanilla extract (McCormick brand)

1-2 tablespoons agave nectar

1 heaping tablespoon rice protein powder (I use NutriBiotic brand - Plain. For those that can have dairy, you can use a gluten free whey protein powder instead)

Crushed ice

Blend until smooth. If too thick, you can add a dash of either rice milk or almond milk until desired consistency.